THC vs CBD – Legality, Medical Benefits & Other Side Effects

Consumers are becoming more curious about cannabis, especially since more countries begin to contemplate legalisation. They also want to know more about its derivatives and the health benefits they provide.

THC and CBD are the two compounds that are most known to people. THC is the compound that is found in marijuana and it is typically consumed via vaping, edibles and smoking. CBD products are taken some of those ways, but also other ways. This includes gel form, CBD oil and gummies.

Although THC and CBD bares similarities, they are very different because they affect users differently. We have compiled a list of factors to help you learn more about the differences between the two. Before you purchase any cannabis-derived product, you’ll want to learn what these differences are.

Chemical Structures

THC and CBD compounds have similar molecular compositions, but their structures are different. THC and CBD contain 21 carbon atoms, two oxygen atoms and 30 hydrogen atoms. Their atom arrangements are slightly structured differently and there are only a few minor differences in their atom arrangements. CBD and THC do interact with cannabinoid receptors in our brains, as well as our immune systems, which play a role in regulating cell activity in our bodies.

Psychoactive Elements

CBD oil and other products derived from CBD do not get people high when they use them. However, when they use THC products, then they will get that high feeling. The high feeling is associated with marijuana and it happens because THC affects the CB1 receptors, while CBD compounds affect the CB2 receptors, which do not play a role in producing a high feeling.

Legality

CBD has gained popularity throughout the United States and there is a lot of evidence to support its medicinal properties, which is why it has become legal in most states. Specific CBD laws can vary state by state. This means if you want to buy and use CBD products, then it’s a good idea to make sure you are complying with the laws of the state you reside in. Also, you can purchase CBD products in many stores across America or online.

THC is not legal in all states. In fact, there are only a few states that have legalized THC, either on a medical level or recreational level. If you live in a state where THC is legal, then you can obtain it via a dispensary that has been certified by the state or obtain it via a licensed doctor.

Medical Benefits

THC and CBD products have been associated with a number of health benefits, such as relieving people from pain or helping those with insomnia. Although they offer similar benefits, they have different side effects. The main difference in effects is that consuming THC causes you to get high, while CBD does not produce that feeling. Many people prefer to use CBD products because of this reason.

CBD can help with a range of health conditions, such as extreme pain, seizures and mental illness. Inflammation, depression and anxiety are other conditions it can help with. THC can help with conditions such as anxiety, glaucoma, lack of appetite and insomnia.

Other Side Effects

When consumed in large amounts, CBD can still be tolerated. Generally speaking, side effects typically happen when CBD is used with other medications. THC on the other hand, can lead to an array of side effects such as red eyes, increased heartbeat, slow reactions and memory loss. THC can also lead to serious psychiatric effects when it is used for extended periods of times.

Drug Testing

CBD and THC are cannabinoids and both are stored within the body. Traces of CBD and THC can show up in a drug test, even after weeks of being consumed. However, most places check for THC and not CBD. This is because THC is the compound responsible for causing people to feel high.

Generally speaking, CBD is the better choice when it comes to what you should use. This is because CBD products are generally safer and healthier. More importantly, CBD products tend to be legal in far more places than THC products.